Like entering a still-life painting, visiting a house museum is a unique opportunity to stop time and imagine the past in spaces dedicated to its preservation. It’s as if the atmosphere breathes with life. You can sense the past in the small objects prized by former inhabitants, and their presence in their absence.

On a quiet street in Auckland Park, you’ll find Lindfield House, a monument to mostly Victorian life (with some Edwardian references) presided over by Katherine Love who has spent a lifetime collecting objects from her favourite era. The house was built in 1910 after the Victorian era – 1837 to 1901 – and not much of Victorian Joburg remains. But step inside, accompanied by Love, dressed as a parlour maid, and you will be transported to a different time.

Love can brilliantly conjure the Victorian period through her vast knowledge of everyday habits, and is very much part of the lavish exhibits that spread across 18 darkened rooms. On a guided tour there is an astonishing amount to be learnt about life in Victorian Johannesburg, from the special teacups men used to protect their moustaches or the calling cards ladies left on their brief parlour visits, to the details of a typical Victorian dinner party or the lifestyle of a young Edwardian dandy – a visit is endlessly fascinating.

Different Johannesburg In Your Pocket team members have visited Lindfield House a few times over the years, with the most recent visit by Duduzile Zulu (2024). We love seeing how each time, the value of this kind of historical preservation shines through. In Zulu’s words, “Stepping into this time capsule from the Victorian era was an awe-inspiring experience. The attention to detail and Katherine's unparalleled knowledge of the Edwardian era left me astonished."

“As a traditionalist, I have always found the parallels between the past and the present intriguing. I often ponder how complex it must be to select what worked for previous generations and discard what no longer serves a purpose. While my interest in the Victorian era and colonial homes might not resonate with everyone, I firmly believe that understanding history, whether it is our own or that of others, is vital in preparing for the future," explains Zulu.

"It is important to note that just because a particular group of people did not get everything right in the past, it does not mean they got everything wrong. History provides us with valuable lessons and insights that can guide us in navigating the challenges of the present.” 

Zulu also points out that, amidst her fascination, “a sense of sympathy for Katherine Love settled in. Her life's dedication to preserving this historical gem has no descendants or potential funders to continue her legacy.” 

We urge you to visit and support Love’s effort. Her dedication has uniquely preserved a part of Johannesburg’s history, and we think Lindfield House is a must-see. 

How to visit Lindfield House

Tours of the house are by appointment only and are available daily from 10:00 – 17:00. Call +27 11 726 2932 to book. Alternatively, you can contact Lindfield House on +27 83 589 8668 or email lindfieldhousemuseum@outlook.com; note you need to book at least a day in advance.